Train spills lye pellets in Wetzel, poses no danger

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PROCTOR, W.Va. -- Authorities are investigating a train derailment in Wetzel County that spilled about 3 tons of sodium hydroxide pellets.Sodium hydroxide, also known as lye, is a chemical used in the production of paper, soap, detergent and drain cleaner.New Martinsville Fire Chief Larry Couch told media outlets that 12 cars of a CSX Corp. train derailed in Proctor around 3 a.m. Tuesday. Several cars and the tracks were damaged.

Crouch and CSX said the train also was carrying chlorine but none of the chemical spilled.

Crouch said the derailment didn't pose any immediate danger to residents or what he called a sensitive ecological area. There were no injuries or evacuations.Five cars were on their sides and the other seven remained upright.